Tecnotramit joins forces in fighting against phenylketonuria (PKU), a disease that can cause intellectual disabilities, seizures, or deafness in newborns if not treated. We will do so by sponsoring the mountain bike MTB charity race to gather funds to keep battling this disease.
All proceeds from this sporting event will help develop an electronic device that measures protein levels in the patient’s body in order to avoid attacks originating from unsuspecting protein intake. The device is still in the testing phase and the bodies involved in this development are the PKU Foundation (Fundación PKU), the Sant Joan de Deu Hospital, and the Autonomous University of Barcelona.
What is phenylketonuria
It is a rare genetic disorder that causes the amino acid called phenylalanine to build up in the body. Phenylketonuria is the consequence of a change in the phenylalanine hydroxylase or PAH gene. This gene creates an enzyme needed to break phenylalanine down. Without this enzyme, dangerous amounts of phenylalanine can build up in a person’s body with phenylketonuria when they consume foods with protein or aspartame, an artificial sweetener.
People with phenylketonuria (babies, children, and adults) must follow a diet for the rest of their lives that restricts phenylalanine, found mainly in foods with protein. New medications allow people who suffer from phenylketonuria to intake an unlimited amount or higher levels of phenylalanine.
When, where, and how to take part in the event
The MTB race will take place Sunday, 22nd October at Palau Solità i Plegamans. It will be a mountain bike charity race. There are several categories adapted to all levels. If you like sports, mountains, a healthy lifestyle, and making our society better, don’t miss out! Participants will enter a prize draw. You can also take part by donating through this link. See you there!